Ruda Slaska – fighting for a just transition

A group from Ruda Slaska fighting for a just transition, with which the foundation is working, made sure to ask the candidates questions about a just transition in connection with the city’s ongoing early elections. The group observed the campaign, and also met and talked with local government officials about mining damage and the establishment of an ecological use in post-mining areas, among other issues.  From July to September, they met with mayoral candidates (a total of 4 such meetings) to check the candidates’ attitudes toward such topics as greening the city, involving the community in urban affairs, revitalizing industrial areas, guaranteeing jobs for city residents (especially those working in mining.), ideas for developing post-mining areas, and ideas for eliminating mining damage. The group’s members are also involved in activities in: the city revitalization committee, the city development committee, the council of senior citizens, give opinions on land use plans, and one person is a city councilman. In addition, they appear at community meetings with the city government and attend meetings of the public benefit council. The activists’ commitment and consistent actions have made the group visible in the city, and locally, politicians have been able to notice the increased involvement of local society in democratic processes.